7 of 10
Cinematography by Jean L�pine
Tim Robbins
Greta Scacchi
Fred Ward
Whoopi Goldberg
Cynthia Stevenson
Sydney Pollack
Lyle Lovett
All of Hollywood
"Can we talk about something other than Hollywood for a change? We're educated people."
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| The Player 7 of 10 |
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| Directed by Robert Altman Cinematography by Jean L�pine Tim Robbins Greta Scacchi Fred Ward Whoopi Goldberg Cynthia Stevenson Sydney Pollack Lyle Lovett All of Hollywood |
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| I can tell that I�m becoming familiar with the movie industry because I am really starting to enjoy films that make fun of Hollywood. And this film makes fun of Hollywood ruthlessly, even though Altman himself claims that it is more of a personal criticism than an industry-wide one. Compared to Altman�s other work, I found it much more accessible. There was a much stronger story sense here than in Nashville, which was my main complaint with that film. There was a sly wit in it as well, one that was again lacking in Nashville. The script features some brilliant writing from Michael Tolkin, who also penned the book. And that�s where the film�s real strength lies: its words. The industry really does have its own language, and Tolkin understands that. But he also knows how to turn it against the people he is portrayingl. This strength leads to the film�s real flaw, which is its overwhelming cynicism. The only redeemable character in the entire film is played by Cynthia Stevenson, whose turn as Griffin Mill�s cast-off girlfriend shines through as the lone bright spot in an otherwise hopeless film. But the cynical nature of the work does not detract from its overall excellence. The cast is very strong, especially Robbins in his role as the devious Mill. And the opening shot, clocking in at well over 5 minutes long, is a real tour de force. All in all, a most enjoyable film, especially if you like to see Hollywood hoisted on its own petard. "Can we talk about something other than Hollywood for a change? We're educated people." |
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